Floorcloths are canvas area rugs. These rugs were popular in 18th century England and could be found in many wealthy period homes. There were many designs including wood graining, tiles, and marbling. Eventually, American colonists began to create these durable and functional floor covers. Today floorcloths are a practical floorcovering that allows each student to create a unique piece suited for their home.
Students can select from a large variety of cut stencils to create their own design. Choose the popular Nantucket Wildflowers designed by Lee Papale or choose from a selection of traditional patterns.
Maximum class size: 8
Mary Emery Lacoursiere graduated from Pratt Institute with an M.F.A. in printmaking and painting. She had a studio in New York City for fifteen years, specializing in hand-painted sisal rugs, murals, and restoring historical painting. A member of the Historical Society of Early American Decoration since 1978, Mary has been a contributing artist for Lifetime Television and Hearst Entertainment and currently owns and operates Emery Design here on Nantucket. She is also the director of Education at the Nantucket Historical Association.